Okada Legalisation Process Underway, Law To Be Amended – NRSA CEO

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) is advancing efforts to legalize commercial motorcycle operations, commonly known as “Okada,” in Ghana. NRSA Chief Executive Abraham Amaliba announced that amendments to the Roads Act are underway to facilitate this legalization process.

A previous Legislative Instrument (L.I.) intended to legalize Okada was withdrawn from Parliament due to concerns over siren usage by Members of Parliament. The revised law is expected to be reintroduced for parliamentary approval soon.

To ensure a smooth transition, an NRSA delegation recently visited Rwanda to study best practices in motorcycle transport. Mr. Amaliba plans to engage with Okada rider associations, tricycle operators, and other stakeholders to discuss implementing regulations. Emphasizing road safety, he called on the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service to enforce traffic laws strictly, citing Rwanda’s success in regulating the industry through law enforcement.

However, experts advise caution. Professor Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa, former Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), recommends thorough research and pilot programs before full implementation. He highlights that while tricycles (“Aboboyaa”) contribute to local economic development, they also pose significant road safety risks. Prof. Adarkwa suggests that any move to commercialize these transport modes nationwide should be gradual and carefully planned.

As the legalization process progresses, the NRSA emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement, strict law enforcement, and the adoption of best practices to enhance road safety and ensure the successful integration of Okada operations into Ghana’s transportation system.